Bridge of Hope event coming up Oct. 20

A fun-filled afternoon is set for children missing a parent in their lives.

Diane Teague with Bridges of Hope saw a need and wanted to provide a service for kids without a mother or father in their home. They can be children raised by grandparents or single parents.

“I would like for them to have someone to give them some special attention,” Teague said.

She has partnered with Hope Discipleship Training Center to offer a day filled with activities coming up Saturday, Oct. 20 at Hidden Lake Ranch Safari.

“We’re looking to create a support system,” said HDTC’s Christian Cleghorn. “... To let them know they’re valued and cared for and loves them and is there for them.”

Cleghorn said the idea stemmed from a program called “A Day with Dad” offered by some prisons for families in which the father is incarcerated that allows their children a day to spend with them.

“So Diane thought, why can’t we do this for kids who don’t have a dad at home? Come and spend time with men and play games and create a family atmosphere. Even to create a support system for the grandma who is raising her grandchildren and she’s tired,” Cleghorn said.

Teague has seen the “Day with Dad” program firsthand. She is raising her 9-year-old grandson because his father is incarcerated.

“We were able to relax while they take care of things. You could also communicate with your loved one which isn’t always easy when you’re visiting,” she said. “And sometimes kids will go ask a male role model a question they’re not going to ask us.

Teague and Cleghorn’s hope is to help families break the cycle of broken families.

“These kids can realize that they didn’t make the choices that they’re living with, but they can learn that they can make better ones,” Teague said.

The Bridges of Hope day of fun is scheduled for 1-6 p.m. and is open to children grades first through fifth grade who have a significant parent not present in their home.

Caregivers are encouraged to attend the event, but not required as long as the necessary forms are completed. Whether they do or not, the day is meant to be one of relaxation for them and a special area will be set up to take care of them.

If transportation to the park is needed, a shuttle will be available from Bible Baptist Church that afternoon.

Forms may be picked up and dropped off at City Hall, or sign-up at National Night Out.

Space is limited to 25 kids and the outdoor event is subject to cancellation based on the weather. The deadline to RSVP is Oct. 5

For more information, contact Teague at 940-781-9644 or Cleghorn at 940-507-3188. Bridge of Hope is also seeking volunteers to help with the event. Contact Cleghorn or Teague to sign up.